Valadao became the third Republican congressman to back the bill. He joins fellow Republicans Jeff Denham of California and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen of Florida in supporting the plan introduced by House Democrats. The legislation, aimed at reforming the U.S. immigration system, was introduced by Congressman Joe Garcia (D-Fla).

"I have been working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to find common ground on the issue of immigration reform," Valadao said in an Oct. 30 news release. "Recently, I have focused my efforts on joining with like-minded Republicans in organizing and demonstrating to Republican leadership broad support within the party to address immigration reform in the House by the end of the year.

Rep. Valadao represents California’s 21st Congressional District, which includes Kings County and portions of Fresno, Tulare, and Kern Counties. The district is heavily Hispanic and home to the nation’s top milk-producing area.

"I appreciate Congressman Valadao’s willingness to work with both sides of the aisle on comprehensive immigration reform," said Garcia. "With his support and help, I look forward to strengthening our nation’s immigration system."